Unit 5013V1 – Leadership Practice
Task 1
A.C 1.1 – Discuss the concept of managers as effective leaders
For a manager who leads a sales department in a medium sized construction materials company there are a number of responsibilities. These evolve around setting direction, motivating and inspiring the team and individuals, and co-ordinating workload and outputs.
In order to manage effectively they would use the following methods/behaviours based around the key functions according to Henri Fayol; * Plan and make forecasts * organise work and schedule * co-ordinate the team/individuals * set tasks/give instructions and detail * monitor progress
In addition, these management methods and behaviours are combined with a number of leadership functions which include; * Building a vision * Inspiring others * Motivating and empowering * Develop trust (with-in your team/sub-ordinates) * Looking at the bigger picture * People – knowing who they are
Whilst these functions and behaviours appear as separate lists, Colenso (1997) identified that if executed with the correct balance the functions of a manager and leader can complement each other in order to deliver the desired result.
Further-more, although there are two sets of skills/functions it must be recognised that it is most likely that the manager and leader are the same person. Therefore a combination of both sets is required in order for that person to be an effective manager and leader.
My first example of effective management is when I conducted research into the construction industry in order to compile a forecast for market sector growth. Around this I have created a plan on which they should focus their activities. In sharing this forecast and plan with the team I have identified key target markets, giving them direction on which to focus their time.
Leading on